ICD-10 Code I49.3 – Ventricular premature depolarization (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code I49.3 – Ventricular premature depolarization
What it is
Ventricular premature depolarization means an early heartbeat that starts in the ventricles instead of the normal conduction pathway. You use this code for premature ventricular contractions documented as a diagnosis.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Common findings include palpitations, skipped beats, or an irregular rhythm seen on ECG, Holter monitor, or telemetry.
When to use this code
Use I49.3 when the provider documents ventricular premature depolarization, premature ventricular contractions, or PVCs as the active diagnosis. It may also apply when the rhythm disturbance is confirmed during evaluation and is the reason for monitoring or follow-up.
Choose this code when the record identifies isolated ventricular ectopy rather than a broader arrhythmia disorder. Check documentation if the note only mentions an abnormal rhythm without naming the ventricular origin.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for atrial premature beats, supraventricular arrhythmias, or nonspecific palpitations without documented PVCs. Check documentation when the rhythm disturbance is part of a different cardiac diagnosis.
Coding tip
Code from the provider’s stated rhythm diagnosis and avoid inferring ventricular ectopy from an ECG strip alone.